Car maintenance can be expensive, but necessary. Wise car owners know that maintaining their car will keep it running longer and prevent major damage and repairs. Still, nobody wants to pay for maintenance or repairs that are not necessary. Tire changes are a regular part of car vehicle maintenance and if you own a four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive vehicle, you probably know that you can’t just replace one or two tires on your vehicle at a time. So why is it that you can get by with replacing two tires on a front-wheel drive vehicle but have to replace all of the tires on a four-wheel drive vehicle?

Avoiding DamageThe reason most mechanics suggest that all-wheel drive vehicle owners should change all four tires at the same is due to the fact that the differential and computer system in these vehicles worth together to distribute the proper amount of torque to each wheel so the car gets good traction and does not slip. This also gives the driver better control over the vehicle. If some tires have more tread or are in better condition than other tires on the vehicle, it can change the amount of torque that needs to be sent to each tire. The computer could get an incorrect reading the differential will work harder than necessary and send too much torque to the tires. Overtime, this can cause the vehicle’s drivetrain to become overworked and worn out.

Rotating Your TiresIf you want to get the most out of your tires, rotating them is your best option. When you rotate your tires, it allows the treat on each tire to wear evenly, and helps prevent your computer and differentials from malfunctioning and the drivetrain from becoming damaged and overworked. Rotating your tires is inexpensive and can extend the life of your tires and your vehicle.

ExceptionsThere are some cases where you can change one or two tires on an all-wheel drive vehicle without replacing them all. If your tires only have a few thousand miles on them and one becomes flat or damaged, you can replace it without replacing the others. It is only when there is a significant difference in tread that damage to the drive train can occur.

Being a responsible vehicle owner means maintaining your car and making necessary repairs. Taking care of your car on a regular basis can save you money on major repairs in the long run and will keep your car running safely and smoothly longer.